Why We Love Chavela Vargas

Lover to Frida Kahlo and a favorite of Pedro Almodovar's, world-famous singer and guitarist Chavela Vargas's fierce masculine style--bandanas, ponchos, pants, and cigars--suited her gravelly yet evocative sound. Described by Almodovar as "the rough voice of tenderness," Vargas, who died last year at 93, remained closeted until she was 81, when she finally said, in a voice proud and respected, "I was born this way."

Watch a clip of her singing "En El Ultimo Trago" live below: